Promoting Excellence in HO Scale Vehicle Modeling

Franklin 170XL Grapple Skidder - By Dennis Raper


Dennis Raper converted a Resin Unlimited Franklin pulp-forwarder into a Franklin 170XL grapple skidder. He used the front half of the resin model and scratchbuilt the rear section including the grapple and boom. The resin model was made to turn in the middle. Dennis also made the frame oscillate and put clear plastic behind the screens to simulate the Lexan glass in the cab, added hydraulic lines to the grapple, changed the limb-risers and added Dennis Aust tires/wheels. Dennis also added planetaries on the wheels and of course, some grime and weathering.

Posted December 11, 2009